Historic Policy Shift in Civil Service Recruitment
China has reportedly increased the maximum hiring age for some civil service positions for the first time in three decades, raising it from 35 to 38 years old, according to Reuters reports. The revision was announced ahead of the opening of applications for the national civil service examination, with candidates now required to be between 18 and 38 years of age to apply. Sources indicate that for applicants with master’s or doctoral degrees, the age limit has been extended even further to 43 from the previous 40.
Addressing Demographic Challenges
Analysts suggest this policy change aligns with China’s broader efforts to delay the legal retirement age and maintain older workers in the labor force longer. The move comes as China faces significant demographic challenges, with its population of those aged 60 and older expected to account for at least 40% of the population by 2035. This demographic shift, equivalent to more than 400 million people, represents a combination of the populations of Britain and the United States.
Combating Workplace Ageism
The report states that China has been actively seeking to curb age discrimination in the job market, where many older workers face rejection due to perceptions about their age and energy levels. Netizens have reportedly dubbed this phenomenon the “curse of 35,” reflecting dwindling job opportunities for older applicants. According to reports, competition for coveted state sector jobs has been increasing, accelerating calls to ease age restrictions for government roles.
Broader Workforce Reforms
This civil service age adjustment appears part of a comprehensive approach to workforce management. Since the start of this year, China has reportedly adjusted retirement ages across various sectors. For men, the retirement age has been raised to 63 from 60, while for women in white-collar work it has increased to 58 from 55. Women in blue-collar work now face a retirement age of 55, up from 50.
Examination and Recruitment Details
The national civil service examination, which continues the tradition of China’s historical examination system, is scheduled to take place on November 30. According to the State Administration of Civil Service statement, this year’s exam will recruit 38,100 new civil servants. The Global Times state newspaper reportedly described the age requirement adjustments as “appropriate” and in line with the country’s progressive approach to workforce management.
Global Context and Industry Parallels
While ageing populations represent a global phenomenon, analysts suggest the issue is particularly pronounced in China due to the legacy of its one-child policy. This policy, which was in place for three decades, has reportedly exacerbated the country’s demographic challenges. The workforce adjustments in China come as other industries worldwide face similar demographic pressures, with companies like Ørsted scaling back operations and Stellantis announcing major manufacturing expansions in response to changing economic conditions.
Future Implications
The policy change represents a significant shift in how China manages its workforce development and addresses systematic age discrimination. As recruitment practices evolve globally, with companies increasingly turning to technological solutions like those developed by AI recruitment startups raising substantial funding, China’s approach to civil service recruitment may signal broader changes in employment practices. The reforms come amid increased scrutiny of hiring practices worldwide, similar to calls for investigations into employment and security practices in other sectors.
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